The River Ouse will play host to juniors from far and wide, on Sunday, for a likely arctic 5km head race. It will be a great opportunity for crews to get their final race in, with SHORR fast approaching. It is surprising to see that the sweep events (noticeably the fours) are particularly poorly entered, contrasting the varied entries in the sculling events. If the Storm from Siberia wasn’t enough for the young rowers to contend with, every cox and bowman will be challenged by the almost 90 degree bend, with the knowledge that taking this corner perfectly could be the difference between taking home a goblet or returning empty handed.
J18 8+ Yorkshire Head will be the first run out (of 2018) for many of these crews with a lack of events in the area that allow big boat entries; inevitably making this a tight category. However, Yarm School are showing great depth by fielding 2 boats, therefore I would say Yarm school A will take the win but not without a good race from St Peter’s School and Cantabrigian.
WJ18 8+ With only 2 entries in this category I would predict Yarm School to win- especially with the knowledge that their St Leonard’s School opposition are a J16 crew. It could, however, be closer than expected and it will be interesting to see how times compare to the WJ16 event.
J18 4x- I can only see this result going one way and that is with the York City boat. With clear wins at the Head of the Trent last week and York SBH these boys look very dominant and should be one of the fastest boats of the day.
WJ18 4x- The girls from Yarm have had some very convincing wins this season, including their win over York City at York SBH. Consequently, I don’t believe that the Yarm School boat will be particularly challenged for the win on Sunday and will look very impressive.
J16 4x- The three crews entered have all raced each other before, with Durham School taking the win at York SBH. The Dunelmians have had lots of strong performances this winter and I think this Sunday will be no different.
WJ16 4x- The WJ16 category continues to be as competitive as ever, with 3 very similar and fast crews entered to race on Sunday. These three quads all raced at Tees LDS and it was St Leonard’s School who took the win. I would predict a repeat of this result but significantly tighter; taking into account York City having a home water advantage.
The Northerner
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